30 Caliber Ballistic Coefficient Testing at 100 Yards | 30-06 Cartridge Used

Published on March 23, 2024
Duration: 14:51

This video details a ballistic coefficient test conducted by The Gun Dungeon using a .30-06 cartridge. The experiment aimed to analyze how starting muzzle velocity and ballistic coefficient affect velocity drop at 100 yards. Four different loads were tested, with the presenter meticulously recording chronograph data to compare the performance differences.

Quick Summary

Ballistic coefficient significantly impacts bullet velocity retention over distance. Tests with .30-06 show that bullets with higher ballistic coefficients (e.g., 0.69) lose far less velocity at 100 yards than those with lower coefficients (e.g., 0.186), even when fired at similar starting speeds.

Chapters

  1. 00:09Introduction to Ballistic Coefficient Testing
  2. 00:38Testing 150 Grain Round Nose Loads
  3. 01:25Comparing with 208 Grain ELD Bullet
  4. 02:09Introducing 150 Grain FMJ Boattail Load
  5. 02:49Setting Up Chronographs and Target
  6. 04:35First Shots and Point of Impact
  7. 06:45Chronograph Setup for Data Collection
  8. 06:57Testing Fast 30-30 Bullet Velocity
  9. 09:25Testing 150 Grain Full Metal Jacket Velocity
  10. 10:12Testing Slower 150 Grain 30-30 Bullet Velocity
  11. 10:53Testing 208 Grain ELD Bullet Velocity
  12. 11:45Presenting Test Results and Data
  13. 12:10Analysis: Starting Velocity vs. Velocity Loss
  14. 13:02Analysis: Ballistic Coefficient vs. Velocity Loss
  15. 14:20Conclusion and Viewer Feedback

Frequently Asked Questions

How does starting muzzle velocity affect bullet velocity drop at 100 yards?

According to tests using .30-06, a higher starting muzzle velocity with the same bullet can lead to a greater velocity loss over 100 yards. This is attributed to increased air resistance at higher speeds, similar to running through water faster.

What is the impact of ballistic coefficient on velocity retention?

Ballistic coefficient significantly influences velocity retention. Bullets with higher ballistic coefficients (like the 208-grain ELD Match at 0.69) lose velocity much slower over 100 yards compared to bullets with lower coefficients (like a 150-grain round nose at 0.186) when fired at similar speeds.

How were the ballistic tests conducted in The Gun Dungeon video?

The tests used .30-06 cartridges with various bullet weights and designs. Two chronographs were employed, one near the muzzle and one at 100 yards, to measure velocity drop. The experiment aimed to isolate variables like starting velocity and ballistic coefficient.

Can ballistic coefficient differences be observed at 100 yards?

Yes, the video demonstrates that ballistic coefficient differences are clearly observable at 100 yards. A bullet with a higher BC retained significantly more velocity than one with a lower BC, even when fired at comparable muzzle velocities from the same rifle.

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